J-League pulls plug on floodlights

Japan’s J-League is set to resume this coming weekend after an enforced break as a result of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. But all games will be played during daylight hours to conserve electricity as the country battles an energy shortage.

April league fixtures are to kick-off by 2pm, with the measure being continued in May. Kick-off times will get later as the days lengthen. The league hopes that all postponed games will be able to be played during what would have been the mid-season break in July, although no decision has yet been taken about floodlit games during that period.

Football has been hit hard by the disaster with several stadia – including those of Kashima Antlers, Vegalta Sendai and Mito Hollyhock – sustaining significant damage. The JFA also cancelled national team friendlies against Montenegro and New Zealand that had been planned for March.

Off The Post is dedicated to bringing you all the latest football news, views, rumour and humour. Get your transfer gossip fix and everything else you need to know about what’s going on in the world of the beautiful game.